Description of an inorganic polymer &#34;electret&#34; in a colloidal state along with the method of generating and applications

ABSTRACT

The present invention includes an apparatus for generating an inorganic polymer electret in a colloidal state, the inorganic electret in a colloidal state itself, and applications for the inorganic electret in a colloidal state. The invention includes a method for generation of a colloidal silica particle which is dipolar in that it is positively charged in the nucleus and negatively charged on the outer surface leaving a net negative charge to the particle. The apparatus includes the ability to control particle size, uniformity, consistency, hydration, and three dimensional structure which is desirable for various applications.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application thereby incorporates herein by reference and claimspriority to the following U.S. patent applications:

Ser. No. 09/092,676, filed Jun. 5, 1998, and entitled “Description of anInorganic Polymer ‘Electret’ in a Colloidal State Along With the Methodof Generating and Applications”;

Ser. No. 60/085,289, filed May 13, 1998, and entitled “GabapentinMonohydrate Converted to a Polyhydrate and Colloidal Silicate and aProcess for Producing Same Along. With Applications of Same”;

Serial No. 60/060,065, filed Dec. 10, 1997;

Serial No. 60/067,717, filed Dec. 8, 1997; and

Serial No. 60/048,766, filed Jun. 5, 1997 and entitled “Description ofan Inorganic Polymer ‘Electret’ in a Colloidal State Along With theMethod of Generating and Applications”;

Included with this submission is a copy of a provisional patent “Use ofProprietary Additive-“IPE” (Inorganic Polymer Electret) for RO (ReverseOsmosis) Membrane Enhancement. The material is made a part of thiscurrent application by inclusion and reference.

Reference to a “Microfiche Appendix”

Not applicable

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field: The present invention relates to an Inorganic Polymer Electret ina colloidal state along with a unique method of synthesis which revealsthe inorganic and physical chemistry model for the growth of theparticle along with methods of use in its various states andembodiments, liquid, solid, and gel.

One such method for use is the use for reactivating or regenerating ionexchange resin beds by backwashing with a solution of Inorganic Polymer“Electret.”

Inclusions: Included with this submission is the core patent for thismaterial “Description of an Inorganic Polymer “Electret” in a ColloidalState along with the Method of Generating and Applications.” Thisprovisional application is made a part of this current submission byinclusion and reference.

Another method of use is the method of use for reverse osmosis units inwhich the IPE charges the membrane with the calcium and magnesiumsequestering IPE. This layer of colloid protects the membrane fromscaling and makes it much more efficient and gives the membrane longerlife. The membrane is protected through a mechanism of charge repulsionby the colloid. The colloid sequesters the calcium, the colloid has astrong net negative charge which keeps the sequestered calcium in thereject stream.

Inclusions: Included with this submission is the core patent for thismaterial “Description of an Inorganic Polymer “Electret” in a ColloidalState along with the Method of Generating and Applications.” Descriptionof an Inorganic Polymer “Electret” in a Colloidal State and its Use inConjunction with Ion Exchange Softening Technology and Nitrate Removalas well as supporting data for all applications cited The applicationsand materials are made a part of this current submission by inclusionand reference.

State of the Art: Methods of generating an unstable silica colloidalsuspension, such as activated silica when sodium silicate is activatedwith sulfuric acid, aluminum sulfate, carbon dioxide, or chlorine and arelatively stable aqueous suspension of colloidal silica (U.S. Pat. No.# 5,537,363) have been described None of these methods discuss themolecular and physical parameters of the particle as they are effectedby the method of generation of the particle, nor how the chemical andphysical properties relate to the applications.

The present invention presents a method heretofore not described for thegeneration of a colloidal silica particle which is dipolar in that it ispositively charged in the nucleus and negatively charged on the outersurface which gives a net negative charge to the particle. Anotherimportant aspect of this invention is the ability to control theparticle size, charge, uniformity, consistency, hydration and threedimensional structure. It is desirable to be able to control theseparameters such that the particle can be used in a reproducible fashionfor a vast variety of applications in which it is desirable tomanipulate the distribution of surface charges for commercial benefit.

I have discovered a method for generating a uniform, consistent aqueouscomposition containing inorganic colloidal silica in the form of aninorganic polymer, which is configured in a desirable fashion by theaddition of potassium to the generating fluid which aids in theconfiguration of the particle.

The active component of the invention comprises an aqueous suspension ofa colloidal silica in which the three dimensional charged structure isgenerated by a special method of generating an electrostatic field whichcharges the particle, as it is synthesized, with an electrostaticcharge. The solution is preferably mixed in such a way that thecolloidal particles become electrically charged by circulating thecharged solution through a counter current flow apparatus at acontrolled velocity and at a controlled rate of adjustment of the pH ofthe solution. As the pH is lowered, the particle (polymer) grows as itis charged. Multiple layers of charged fluid are traveling in a countercurrent chamber such that each layer generates a magnetic flux field andthereby generates an electrostatic charge on the adjoining layer offluid. The rate of generation is enhanced by the use of an apparatussuch as in U.S. Pat. No. # 4,888,113, when such apparatus is placed onthe counter current chamber. The current invention is a significantimprovement in design which brings about functional differences as aresult of the design differences from those of the existing art in U.S.Pat. No. # 4,888,113. The new embodiment establishes a symmetric threedimensional field gradient. This embodiment requires round centercharged magnets. The device comprises a plurality of center charged,static magnetic bodies in each device, having at least two positive andtwo negative magnetic poles substantially in two parallel planes, themagnetic poles being oriented to define the four vertices of aquadrilateral shape, the two positive poles defining opposite diagonalvertices, and the two negative poles defining opposite diagonal verticesof the quadrilateral shape, each of the magnetic poles beingmagnetically attracted by the oppositely charged poles and beingmagnetically repelled by the like charged poles. Two of the oppositelycharged poles on each end of the device are facing and have surfaceswhich are parallel. This array generates a magnetic void at theintersection of a line drawn between the opposite diagonal vertices ofthe invention. This null point is essential to generate a steepsymmetrical three dimensional field gradient in the interior of thegenerator conduits.

There is a need for a colloidal generator which will generate acolloidal particle which is consistently uniform in size, shape andcharge, thereby allowing one to tailor make the product for specificapplications.

Accordingly, it is an object of this invention to provide a device whichmay be computer controlled to regulate the pressure, flow and rate oftitration of acid medium and therefore enables one to design and buildsome specificity into the process of generating the net negativelycharged particle.

Another object of the invention is to prepare a counter current colloidgenerator in which the device is constructed of multiple thin wallpipes, one inside the other, with conduit means at each end to allow thefluid to flow in the opposite direction and one layer up as it comes tothe end of each conduit.

It is a further object of this invention to prepare a counter currentcolloid generator made of thin wall stainless steel or plastic. Thisthin wall will allow the magnetic field generated by each layer of fluidto generate an electrostatic charge on the adjacent counter currentfluid column.

Another object of this invention is to demonstrate a detailed method ofmaking one such colloidal particle of silica in a new and unique methodof generating an electrostatic charge which is generated by flow of anadjacent fluid column containing charged particles which generatemagnetic flow.

Another object of this invention is to demonstrate the many uses of thisand other organic and inorganic colloids which can be generated by thismethod.

Another object of this invention is to provide a high pressure, highspeed pump, to pump the fluid through the counter current generator ofthe invention at a high velocity.

It is a further object of this invention to present a generator whichwill build a silica colloid in which the stability is dependent oninternal K⁺ bonding. Historically, citrate ion has been credited withintroducing stability to such colloidal solutions. It is furtherdemonstrated that tripotassium citrate works as a stabilizer of thecolloid of the invention and that sodium citrate on an equal molar basisdoes not work in the system of this invention. It will also be notedthat potassium chloride serves as a stabilizer of the colloid in thisinvention. This data, along with electron beam diffraction studies,reveal that K⁺ is an important component to the full development of theparticle in a useable, stable state.

It is further the object of this invention to build a silica colloid ofhigh concentration such that the material will, when heated at aparticular temperature for a specific period of time, form a very poroussilicalsilica colloid which functions remarkably well as a waterfiltration media bed for the purpose of softening water, applying a netnegative charge to water appliances including pipe lines for the removalof scale consisting of iron, calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate andother mineral deposits. The material may be crushed and sized for use invarying hardness of water. The smaller particles (i.e. more surface areaper gram) will be used for harder water. The silica crystallizes to forma matrix and the colloid leaches out of the matrix to soften anddescale. The media absorbs Fe⁺⁺, Fe⁺⁺⁺, and Ca⁺⁺ to its net negativelycharged surface, thereby removing these substances from contaminated(i.e. hard) water. The suspended colloid in low concentrations willsequester ions such as Ca⁺⁺, Fe⁺⁺, Fe⁺⁺⁺, Mg⁺⁺ and render them inactiveas hardness factors in water. The same sequestration occurs with odorand bad taste contaminants of water.

Cation Exchange Softening

Introduction: One very popular method of softening water for residentialuse is cation exchange.

Mechanism: The hardness-producing elements of calcium and magnesium areremoved and replaced with sodium by a cation resin. Ion exchangereactions for softening may be written where R represents the activesite on the resin:Ca⁺⁺} {(HCO₃)₂ Ca⁺⁺ } {2NaHCO₃ Na₂R+ } { } R⁺ {Na₂SO₄ Mg⁺⁺} {SO₄→Mg⁺⁺}{2 NaCl {Cl₈

They show that if water containing calcium and magnesium is passedthrough an ion exchanger, these metals are taken up by the resin, whichsimultaneously gives up sodium in exchange.

After the ability of the bed to produce soft water has been exhausted,the unit is removed from service and backwashed with a solution ofsodium chloride. This removes the calcium and magnesium in the form oftheir soluble chlorides and at the same time restores the resin to itsoriginal active sodium condition:

ReactionCa⁺⁺}+2NaCl→Na₂R+Ca}Mg⁺⁺} Mg)

The majority of ion exchange softeners are the pressure type, witheither manual or automatic controls. They normally operate at rates of 6to 8 gpm/ft² of surface area. About 8.5 lb. of salt is required toregenerate 1 ft³ of resin and removes approximately 4 lb. of hardness ina commercial unit. The reduction in hardness is directly related to theamount of cations present in the raw water and the amount of salt usedto regenerate the resin bed.

Anion Exchange for Nitrate Removal

Being chemically unreactive, the nitrate ion cannot be precipitated andfiltered from water by conventional treatment processes. Ion exchange isthe most effective method for reducing nitrate nitrogen to the maximumcontainment level of 10 mg/l for drinking water. The most commonly usedand apparently the best system appears to be a strongly basic anionexchanger, which uses sodium chloride as a regenerant. All anionexchange resins preferentially remove divalent anions, therefore bothsulfate and nitrate ions are extracted and replaced by chloride ions.When the capacity for exchanging nitrate ions is depleted, aregenerating solution with a high salt content is pumped through the bedto displace the nitrate and sulfate ion and thereby rejuvenate orregenerate the exchanger.RCl+SO₄ ²⁻—nitrate removal→R{SO₄+Cl {NO₃ ⁻←regeneration—{NO₃

The volume of waste backwash brine is significant, amounting to about 5%of the water processed.

The major disadvantages of anion exchange treatment are high operatingcosts and the problem of brine disposal.

The present invention presents a method for the generation of acolloidal silica particle which is dipolar in that it is net positivelycharged in the nucleus and net negatively charged on the outer surfacewhich give a net negative charge to the particle.

It is a further object of this invention to present a concentrated formof the IPE in the embodiment converted to a solid crystalloid matrixwhich releases active colloid as water flows over a fine meshcontainment means in which the Inorganic Polymer Crystalloid(IPC) isplaced The IPC doesn't solubalize in the containment means. The solubleform in the flowing water adjacent to the fine mesh containment means isin equilibrium with a hydrated gel which is adhered to the mesh screenforming a metering membrane. This gel form is in equilibrium with thesolid colloid of the crystalloid. When water flow begins, the silicacolloid is metered off the hydrated layer of the mesh screen.

It is a further object of this invention to demonstrate the use of thisIPC utilized in a fine mesh embodiment to be placed in the “Salt Tank”of ion exchange resin units to be used instead of sodium chloride orpotassium permanganate to reactivate ion exchange media beds. The IPC isplaced in the salt tank in one of a variety of fine mesh containmentmeans to backwash the resin with silica colloid from the IPC reservoir.If a mixed media bed (i.e. cationic and anionic) is employed, it willremove Ca⁺⁺, Mg⁺⁺, SO₄ ²⁻, NO₃ ⁻, Fe⁺⁺ and Mn₂ ⁺.

It is a further object of this invention to present the ion exchangeembodiment and the method of applying the IPC to the backwash system.

It is a further object of this invention to reveal the use of thepresent invention in the enhancement of reverse osmosis.

Reverse Osmosis

Reverse Osmosis is the forced passage of water through a membraneagainst the natural osmotic pressure to accomplish a separation of waterfrom a solution of dissolved salts. The process of osmosis involves athin membrane which separates waters with different salt concentration.The membrane is permeable to water but not the salts and other solutesin the water. Therefore, water flows in the direction of the highestconcentration of salt. If pressure is applied to the side of higher saltconcentration, the flow of water can be prevented at pressure termed the“osmotic pressure” of the salt solution. In reverse osmosis, the wateris forced by high pressure from a salt solution through the membraneinto fresh water, separating desalted water from the saline solution.The rate of flow through a reverse osmosis membrane is directlyproportional to the difference between the applied and osmoticpressures. Operating pressures vary between 250 and 1500 psi. Thequantity of product water is 60% to 90% for a feed of brackish groundwater and about 30% for a feed of sea water.

Saline water being treated by reverse osmosis must be clear and free ofexcessive hardness iron manganese and organic matter or the membraneswill foul. Currently, full and cost effective use of reverse osmosis forindustrial and home use as well as municipal is limited by expensivepretreatment (FIG. 4). This pretreatment may consist of coagulation andfiltration to remove turbidity, suspended matter, iron and manganese;softening to remove hardness, reducing the potential of calciumcarbonate and calcium sulfate precipitate; and possibly filtrationthrough granular activated carbon to remove dissolved organic chemicals.Acid is commonly used to lower the pH and prevent chemical scaling fromcalcium, magnesium, manganese, iron and other trace mineral compounds.Chlorine may be applied as a disinfectant to control biological growthson the membrane. All of these water contaminants except the organiccompounds are harmful to the membrane. Calcium, magnesium and iron arethe most harmful. The current method of attempting to handle thisproblem is very expensive pretreatment with salt regenerated cationexchange resins or by reducing the pH from 8 to 6.4. This is expensivebut reduces the bicarbonate alkalinity by reducing the bicarbonate tocarbon dioxide to avoid calcium carbonate scale and the adverse effectsof iron and manganese. Hexametaphosphate is a sequestering agent toinhibit scale formation. It, however, is toxic and very expensive.

There clearly is a need for a method to inexpensively protect thereverse osmosis membranes so the significant pretreatment isn'tnecessary, thereby making reverse osmosis a significant part of auniversal water treatment system.

The present invention presents a method heretofore described in twosister provisional patents for the generation of a colloidal silicaparticle which is dipolar in that it is net positively charged in thenucleus and net negatively charged on the outer surface which gives anet negative charge to the particle.

It is a further object of this invention to present an embodiment ofthis “Inorganic Polymer Electrit” (IPE) which may be concentrated andmetered into the inflow stream of the feed water supply of reverseosmosis units in which the feed water stream has not been exposed tosignificant pretreatment.

It is a further object of this invention to explain and demonstrate themechanism of the protection of the membranes against fouling and scalingthereby make reverse osmosis a universal water treatment technology.

It is a further object of this invention to present the membraneprotection embodiment and the method of applying it to standard reverseosmosis membrane units.

It is a further object of this invention to present a design and methodof using this technology to construct and operate a home total watertreatment package for producing totally pure water for whole houseconsumption.

It is a further object of this invention to reveal a list of theapplications of this product along with a summary of the divisionalswhich will follow.

Additional objects and advantages of the present invention will eitherbe set forth in the description that follows, will be obvious from thedescriptions, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objectand advantages of the invention may be obtained by the apparatus andmethod particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the principles of the present invention as embodiedand as broadly described herein, a method of generating and applicationsfor a variety of inorganic polymer electrets in a colloidal state andwith particular reference to a method and apparatus for generating avery concentrated silica colloid which is converted into a crystalloidwhich has extensive applications particularly in the treatment of waterfor human use and consumption. The silica colloids may also be generatedin a more dilute concentration and smaller particle size for differentapplications. The active device, which contains a series of quadrapolar,steep, three dimensional field gradients, which is effective in thegeneration of a colloidal silica particle which is dipolar in that it ispositively charged in the nucleus and negatively charged on the outersurface which gives a net negative charge to the particles. Anotherimportant aspect of this invention is the ability to control theparticle size, charge, uniformity. consistency, hydration, and threedimensional structure. The inorganic colloidal polymer is configured bythe addition of potassium to the generating fluid, which aids in theconfiguration of the particle. The particle is a three dimensionalcharged surface. This charge is generated by a special method ofgenerating an electrostatic field current which charges the colloid asit is synthesized. The solution is mixed in such a way that thecolloidal particles become electrostatically charged by circulating thecharged solution through a counter current apparatus at a controlledvelocity and a controlled rate of adjustment of solution pH. As the pHis lowered, the particle(polymer) grows as it is charged. Multiplelayers of fluid are traveling in a counter current chamber such thateach layer generates an electrostatic charge on the adjoining layer offluid. The rate of generation is enhanced by the use of an improvementupon an apparatus such as in U.S. Pat. No. # 4,888,113 when suchapparatus is placed on the counter current chamber. The device isconstructed of multiple thin wall pipes, one inside the other, withconduit means at each end to allow the fluid to flow in the oppositedirection by flowing through the conduit means into the next chambertoward the outer pipe (i.e. the chamber formed between concentricpipes). The generator is made of, but not limited to, thin wallstainless steel or plastic. This thin wall will allow the magnetic fieldgenerated by each layer of fluid to generate an electrostatic charge onthe adjacent counter current fluid column as the silica(semiconductor)colloid in adjacent chambers flows in the opposite direction. Thisgenerator of the invention may be used to generate many differentorganic and inorganic colloids of both net negative and/or net positivecharge. The current application of the invention as described herein isfor synthesis and curing of a silica colloid which is converted to acrystalloid which has extensive applications particularly in thetreatment of water for human and animal use and consumption. Thegenerator of the invention is used to synthesize a solution of 500 ppmto 350,000 ppm (but not limited to) silica colloid in which thestability is dependent upon, among other factors, internal K+ bonding.Holcomb described a method of making a more dilute colloidal silica inU.S. Pat. No. 5,537,363. That patent describes a method using anelectromagnetic generator to synthesize a solution of less than 500 ppmand dominant particle size of 0.6 microns. The current method allows thesynthesis of concentrations greater than 300,000 ppm in the form of athick soluble gel network. The concentrate of the current invention maybe further processed and dried into an active solid or it may berediluted to any desired concentration. U.S. Pat. No. 5,537,363 did notreveal this ability. The former patent taught the use of a strong acid,HCl, to adjust the pH during synthesis. The present invention presentsevidence that the product of the current invention reveals that only aweak, slowly dissociated acid is effective (See FIG. 12). Anotherimportant factor in synthesis is the use of a weak acid (acetic acid) togenerate the desired product of the invention. This high concentrationmaterial is “gel like” in consistency. Prior to further processing, 20%by volume of 500 to 750 ppm material of small particle size may be addedto form a more dense final material. The material may then be degassedby use of a vacuum. The material is then heated up to 150° to 200° F.for up to 144 hours. This process produces a product of varying butcontrollable density and porosity which functions in a remarkablefashion for water filtration and softening. It imparts a net negativecharge to water appliance's scale, including scale on pipelines, for theremoval of scale of iron, calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, and otherscale forming chemicals. The net negative charge on the scale allows itto be repelled off the surfaces. The solution is dehydrated and forms acrystalline like matrix and the colloid then leaches out to soften anddescale when the material in the solid form is placed into a variety offilter containment means. The media bed will also absorb or sequesterFe⁺⁺, Fe⁺⁺⁺ and Ca⁺⁺ to its negatively charged surface andinactivates(sequesters) these substances which are found in hard water.The colloid which leaches out of the matrix also sequesters cations insolution and inactivates them.

In accordance with the principles of the present invention as embodiedand as broadly described herein, a method and apparatus for generating avery concentrated silica colloid which is converted into a crystalloidwhich has extensive application in the treatment of water. One suchapplication is described in the method and use of the IPC/IPE polymer tobackwash and reactivate and regenerate both anionic and cationic ionexchange resin beds both for home, commercial and industrialapplications.

In accordance with the principles of the present invention as embodiedand as broadly described herein, a method and apparatus for generating avery concentrated silica colloid which is converted into a dissolvablegel which when fed into the feed water line of a reverse osmosis unitinteracts with the calcium magnesium, manganese and iron as well as thereverse osmosis membrane, protecting the membrane and repelling thepositively charged cations which cause fouling and scaling of thereverse osmosis membranes.

The following is a list of the applications of this colloidal materialin various concentrations and forms which will each be a subject of adivisional patent application:

-   1. Food quality, food flavor, food texture, food moisture.-   2. Fragrance enhancement and duration.-   3. Personal care products: a) Cosmetics, b) Soaps, c) Oral care    products, tooth deplaquing, toothpaste, mouth rinse.-   4. Bath products such as shampoo and conditioner.-   5. Brewed beverages.-   6. Homecare: a) Detergents, b) Spot cleaners, c) Silver, chrome, and    stainless steel cleaners, d) Carpet cleaner, e) Bathroom    Cleaners, f) Kitchen cleaners, g) MisceUaneous cleaners for the    home, garage, car, boat, shop, and garden.-   7. Particle mining and transport: a)Coal, b) Ore, c) Oil.-   8. Crude oil—Improve water flood for improved yield.-   9. Water treatment, conditioning, and sequestering    agent—residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal—for    potable, recreational, and waste water as well as for remediation of    ground and surface waters. Regeneration of anion and cation resin    beds used for ion exchange.-   10. Medical: a) Taste improvement in oral medication, b) Improvement    in rate and efficiency in renal dialysis, c) Bum debridment and    dressing, d) Trauma bed mattresses and pads, e) Improved absorption    of topically applied medical formulations, f) Speeds healing of    non-healing wounds.-   11. Agriculture: a) Colloidal minerals to replete the soil with    essential minerals for more healthy and healthful crops, b) Moisture    carrier, c) Nutrient carrier, d) Irrigation—decreased water    requirements, e) Germination improvement, f) Dairy cleaners, g)    Seeding of rain clouds-   12. Building materials: a) Concrete, b) Blocks, c) Bricks, d)    Paints, e) Pastes and glues, f) Insulation.-   13. Fuels—Better dispersion and less sludging at low temperatures.    Cleans injectors and cleans carbon from piston heads.-   14. Waste Management—Improvement in bio-egedation.-   15. Dyes.-   16. Pulp and paper industry to control scale in equipment and    improve the quality of paper.-   17. Water based paints.-   18. Clay products.-   19. Commercial and industrial cleaners: a) Automotive (car wash), b)    Airlines, buses, trains, c) other surfaces, d) laundries.-   20. Aquaculture—Shrimp and catfish—improved taste and quicker growth-   21. Spray for fruit trees, vegetables, and other crops to protect    from frost.-   22. Printing dyes and inks—Better dispersment-   23. Natural herbal sweeteners.-   24. Improved flow of liquids, semi liquids, slurries, and granular    media in pipes, from tanks, or in or from other such containment    devices.-   25. Sequesterent for chemical warfare agents, for chemical spills,    and in chemical processing.-   26. Wetting agent for residential, commercial, and industrial    applications and as an aid in fire fighting.-   27. Deliming and descaling of pipes, tanks, boilers, and other items    contacted with hard water.-   28. Reactivation of ion exchange beds.-   29. Replacement of carbon in steel production.-   30. Control of off taste and odor in water and other systems.-   31. Sequestration (selective and non-selective) of cations and    anions in water and other systems.-   32. Decrease friction of boat and ship hulls with water.-   33. Antifreeze coolant for control of sludging at temperatures    <−100° F. (below zero). Decreases viscosity and descales coolant    surfaces while it controls corrosion.-   34. Method for economical burning of high sulfur coal without    polluting the environment.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated and constitute a partof this specification, illustrate the presently preferred embodiment ofthe invention and serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The best mode presently contemplated for carrying out the invention inactual practice is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1. Chemical equation representation for manufacture of sodiumsilicate.

FIG. 2. Believed polymerization of Si(OH), when titrated with HAC.Formation of silica polymer.

FIG. 3. Believed evolution of the polymer in the generator of theinvention, with a steep gradient magnetic field with K⁺ions as thenucleus and stabilized by the K+ and bound water.

FIG. 4. Bound water on a typical colloidal particle made by standardactivation techniques.

FIG. 5. A schematic representation of the believed polymerizationbehavior of silica.

FIG. 6. Electron photomicrographs of silica particles made by standardactivation techniques compared to electron photomicrographs of a colloidof the invention.

FIG. 7. Comprehensive schematic drawing of the generator of theinvention.

FIG. 8. An overlay of the schematic drawing of the generator of theinvention demonstrating three magnetic quadripolar generators.

FIG. 9. Detailed schematic drawing of the magnetic quadripolar generatorwhich in part demonstrates its uniqueness.

FIG. 10. A schematic view of the degassing/drying ovens which can beused in the invention.

FIG. 11. A schematic view of curing bins which cure the product of theinvention.

FIG. 12. A schematic representation of the preferred embodiment of thetechnology for use in hard water with bad odor and bad taste.

FIG. 13. Titration curve pH with time at constant rate of infusion ofHAC during generation of the product.

FIG. 14. Figure of the ion exchange resin embodiment employed in thisinvention or applied to current salt regenerated ion exchange units inwhich the salt has been replaced with bags of IPC.

FIG. 15. A more compact and efficient ion exchange unit utilizing storeddeionized water and a counter current scrubber to circulate deionizedIPE laden water through the ion beds to increase the efficiency.

FIG. 15 a is a schematic of the counter current scrubber of theinvention.

FIG. 16 is a detailed drawing of a counter current scrubber of theinvention.

FIG. 17. Represents the sequestration process by which IPE inactivatescations.

FIG. 18. A representation of a spiral wound module for reverse osmosis(courtesy of Degremont, 183 Avenue de Juin 1940-92508 Rueil MalmaisonCEDEX-France).

FIG. 19. Represents: (a) Direct osmosis; (b) Osmosis equilibrium; and(c) Reverse osmosis along with a graphic depiction of the protectivemechanism of IPE for charged membranes of reverse osmosis units.

FIG. 20. Represents a schematic diagram of a water purification systemusing reverse osmosis in Orange County, Calif. (Water Factory 21).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the inventionwhich are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Throughout thedrawings, like reference characters are used to designate like elements.

The versatile colloid of this invention comprises an aqueous solutionwith a wide range of stable active concentrations. The colloid may beconverted to an active solid by two methods which will be described indetail. One produces a fluffy white powder and the other a hardcrystallized matrix with significant applications in water treatment andconditioning. The colloid may also be effective for formulation ofdifferent salts of drugs to change their pharmocologic behavior.

Aqueous Colloid (Inorganic Polymer Electret)

Silica is commonly found in waters across the U.S. in levels from near 0to well over 100 ppm (“Water Treatment Fundamentals” WQA). Activated butunstable sodium silicate is used in potable water as a coagulant, forcontrol of corrosion and as a stabilizing/sequestering agent for ironand manganese. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) does notregulate sodium silicate as a contaminant for potable water. The USEPA'slisting of acceptable drinking water additives includes various sodiumsilicate products. There are no upper limits published nor regulated.Silica in the public water systems of the 100 largest cities in the U.S.range from near zero to 72 ppm with a median level of 7.1 ppm (NationalAcademy of Science “Drinking Water and Health”)

Hard water defined as more than 7 grains per gallon is found in thepotable water supplies of greater than 90% of the United States.Currently, only about 10% of that market uses water softeners. The lowutilization appears to be due to the cumbersomeness of the availablesystems and the fact that they are ion exchange resin systems whichrelease large amounts of sodium into the home water supply. There isclearly a need for alternative water conditioning and softening. Thepresent invention softens the water by releasing an active colloid ofsilica into the water which sequesters calcium, magnesium, iron, andmanganese, as well as other charged contaminants. The colloid alsocleans, protects from corrosion and descales the pipe lines as well asfixtures and appliances. The water improves skin hydration, is betterfor cooking and washing dishes and clothes. Detergent needs go downdramatically, to as much as one half in most cases. The preferredembodiment is a solid crystalloid matrix which releases active colloidas the water flows through the media bed. The IPC(Inorganic PolymerCrystalloid) does not solubalize completely in a filter cylinder. Thesoluble form is in equilibrium with a layer of hydration which is inequilibrium with the colloid of the crystalloid. When the water flowbegins, the silica colloid is metered off the layer of hydration. Amedia bed of one to two pounds will supply an average home with 40grains per gallon of hardness for three to four months withoutreplenishing the bed. A similar media bed of IPC may be used instead ofsodium chloride or potassium permanganate to reactivate ion exchangemedia beds. The media bed is attached to the side of the ion exchangeresin tank and, for about 20 minutes per day, the resin is backwashedwith silica colloid from the IPC filter bed. If a mixed media bed (i.e.cationic and anionic) is employed, it will remove Ca⁺⁺, Mg⁺⁺, SO₄ ², NO₃⁻, Fe₂ ⁺ and Mn₂ ⁺. The iron and manganese are removed by placing theIPC filter in the line following the resin bed. IPC sequesters F⁺⁺ andMn₂ ⁺. The mixed resin bed will remove the unwanted Ca⁺⁺, Mg⁺⁺, SO₄ ⁻,and NO₃ ⁻. The backwash of the resin bed will reactivate the cationicsites because of the high affinity which the silica colloid has for theCa⁺⁺ and Mg⁺⁺. In addition, the SO₄ ⁻ and NO₃ ⁻ will backwash out in thewaste because of the high affinity of the colloid for the anion sites onthe resin bed.

The negative sites which are available as the Ca⁺⁺, Mg⁺⁺ and iron aresequestered, attract and bind hydrogen(H⁺) ions which are in the waterand hydrogen ions are also contributed by the sequestered acid which issequestered as the titration takes place during the synthesis of IPC.

As is noted in FIG. 1, the process of this invention is initiated bydissolving silicon dioxide(sand) in a strong alkali solution sodium orpotassium hydroxide. If potassium hydroxide is used, a more tightlybound product is formed The sand, alkali and water are heated to >1000°C. The mixture is approximately 27% silicate by weight in 3 to 4 molaralkali (NaOH or KOH). The active ingredient is Si(OH)₄. As is noted inFIG. 2, the particle formed by the silica colloidal polymer isstabilized by adding tripotassium citrate to the reaction mix. If oneuses sodium citrate instead of potassium citrate in this invention; apoorly active and unstable product results. Potassium is important insynthesis of the three dimensional colloid of the invention. Theconcentration in the final solution is ˜0.01 moles/liter of potassiumcitrate in a solution of 5,000 ppm. If KOH is used in the reaction mix,a more stable, solid material will result FIG. 3 is illustrative of thisversatile and extremely active colloid. FIG. 4 represents the typicaldouble layer of water found bound on a typical silica colloid. Thecolloid of the invention is estimated to have some twenty layers ofbound water. FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of the believedpolymerization behavior of silica in the standard activation process.The colloid of the present invention is much more tightly bound withmore extensive branching of the polymer. FIG. 6 represents electronmicrographs showing stages of aggregation of 35 millimicron particles.

FIG. 6 a is an electronmicrograph of the colloid of the inventionrevealing a high degree of bound water.

The generator of the invention is displayed in FIGS. 7 and 8. Thefunctioning of the generator of the invention entails a pump(1) whichpicks up fluid of the invention 5 which is contained in containmentmeans 3 and flows through conduit 2 and through pump 1. The pump 1generates a velocity of 4 to 10 gpm and a pressure of 20 lbs per squareinch. Fluid at this aforementioned pressure and velocity flows throughconduit 6 and enters conduit means 7. The fluid flows through conduitmeans 7 and exits through holes 8 into conduit (1″ pipe) means 13, thefluid then flows in the opposite direction, it then exits through holes9 and reverses direction again through conduit (1.5″ pipe) means 14. Thefluid exits conduit means 14 through orifices 10 into conduit means 15,this fluid enters chamber 11 and exits the generator proper throughconduit 12 and is carried back to containment means 5 through conduitmeans 4.

FIG. 8 illustrates the function and location of the magnetic boosterunits of the invention. High velocity prolonged flow through the countercurrent device of the invention will generate the colloid of theinvention because of the counter current charge effect which generatesmultiple bidirectional magnetic fields which generate an electrostaticcharge on the adjacent moving charged colloidal particles moving in thecounter current process. If one adds the magnetic booster units of FIG.8 (units A, B and C), the electrostatic charge builds on the colloidmuch faster. As can be noted from FIG. 9, there are multiple gradientswithin the pipe line in the z axis, these gradients also exist in the xand y axis. The multiple gradient effect is responsible for the dramaticelectrostatic charge which builds on the particle as the generatorcontinues to process the material.

The detail manufacture of the product entails the following, but notlimited to: Eight gallons of distilled water are placed into containmentmeans 5. The water is circulated through the generator circuit at 4.5 to5 gpm and 20 lbs/m² for one hour. Sodium Silicate is placed in thegenerator as it continues to run at 4.5 to 5 gpm. This silicate istitrated in over 20 minutes (a total of 5,000 ppm of silicate based onthe weight of SIO₂ on a weight basis is a 27% solution in 4.0 molarNaOH. After the sodium silicate is all in the system, the generatorcontinues to run for one hour. Approximately 2,000 gms of tripotassiumcitrate is added as a slurry to the mixture over 20 minutes. Thegenerator is run for an additional hour under the same conditions. ThepH at this point is >10.0. The solution continues to run through thegenerator at 4.5 to 5.0 gpm as the mix is titrated with 2.0 molar aceticacid at a rate of 10 cc/min. The mixture is titrated to a final pH of7.6 and then continued to run through the generator for an additionalone hour. The material at this point is a cloudy, very densecolloid(IPE).

The IPE is pumped into stainless steel trays 2″×18″×24″. The trays areplaced into vented drying ovens at 150° F. to 175° F. (FIG. 10). Thematerial is cured for 3 days. The resulting product is an off whitecrystalloid with a density of ˜1.1 to 1.2, solubility in distilled wateris 6 ppm. Bound water >50% odor-none, taste-none. The material at thispoint is referred to as organic polymer crystalloid (IPC). It is allowedto cure in plastic bags at 70° F. and 40 to 60% humidity but not limitedto this temperature and humidity. This may be accomplished intemperature and humidity controlled curing bens if the material in largequantity for commercial or municipal use as in FIG. 11.

A preferred embodiment of the technology is in combination with othermedia beds in the treatment of a broad spectrum of bad water withhardness, iron, bad taste and odor (see FIG. 12). The preferred sequenceis raw water inflow through conduit 20 into canister 21. Water flowsdownward in water containment means 22 and in through the pores of thestring wound filter (20 microns) 23. Water with particulates removedflows out through conduit 24 into canister 25 down through containmentmeans 26 and up through carbon bed 27. Some odor, taste and organicinsecticides and pesticides are removed. The water then flows outthrough conduit 28 into canister 29 containing a natural zeolite thewater flows down containment means 30 into media containment means 31and through zeolite bed 32. The outflow has had some removal ofnitrites, ammonia compounds and hardness. Water flows out throughconduit 33 and into canister 34 and downward in containment means 35 andup through the center of cartridge 36 and up through the center of theIPC filter bed The core is formed by attaching a fine mesh filter screenaround a plastic cylinder skeleton. As the water flows through thefilter core IPC dissolves and is drawn through the screen as IPE. Awater concentration of 1 ppm of silica colloid will bind a highpercentage of the calcium, magnesium and iron as well as other (+) ions.This sequestration is not breakable by EDTA titration. Therefore, if theEDTA method of calcium titration is employed for measuring calcium, themethod doesn't detect all of the calcium. Bad odor and tastecontaminants are also sequestered.

Enhanced performance of ion exchange polymers may be obtained bysubstitution of the salt backwashing with an inorganic polymer electret(IPE) or by use of elution of its solid form (IPC). While much iswritten about “hard water,” there is a lack of finite definition. Water“hardness” can commonly be recognized when scum forms around thebathtub. For convenience and communication, “hardness” is measure by thelevel of calcium and magnesium bicarbonates in water and togetherrepresent total hardness (TH). Usually, water above three grains (52ppm) per gallon hardness is labeled “hard.” To establish uniform degreesof hardness, the water quality association and the American Society ofAgricultural Engineers have adopted the hardness levels on the followingTable. Term Grains/Gallon Mg/Liter Soft Less 1.0 Less 17.0 Slightly Hard1.0 to 3.5 17.1 to 60 Moderately Hard 3.5 to 7.0 60 to 120 Hard 7.0 to10.5 120 to 180 Very Hard 10.5 and over 180 and over

The softener of the current invention(FIG. 14 consists of a pressurevessel (tank) 3 containing a bed of cation exchange resin 4 whichremoves the calcium and magnesium and thereby does the softening, aseparate vessel to store the IPC 11 and provide the apparatus to make upthe IPE solution needed for regeneration, and the control value 1 whichdirects the flow of IPE laden water through the cycle of regenerationand service. Sulfonated polystyrene co-polymer cation exchange resin isused almost exclusively today in home and business water softeners. Theexperience of units which are currently in service and are the subjectof this patent reveals that the IPC generated media beds, in sulfur)contaminate 74 grain water, work longer and with better quality waterthan do the salt regenerated beds.

The molecule representation of FIG. 1 represents the charged inorganicpolymer of the invention.

The very strong net negative charge of the IPE allows the backwash waterto sequester calcium, magnesium and iron, thereby allowing it to carrythe hardness factors out in the backwash water, thereby reactivating thepolymer. The calcium ions are replaced by IPE potassium and hydrogenions on the active resin sites.

FIG. 15 represents a more compact ion exchange softener. Water flowsthrough the inflow pipe (12) through bed (23), then (22) and (21). TheIPE sequesters 40% of the cations. Therefore, pass through three smallcolumns will remove 94% of the cations therefore outflow (20) will be94% free of hardness ions. The deionized reserve tank (17) will filluntil float valve (18) stops the flow. This reserve tank, when full,will begin to leach IPE of the insert(15) and will be ready forregeneration. When the regeneration cycle begins, valve (29) closes,valve (25) closes, (27) closes, (28) closes and (24) opens. Pump (19)begins to pump IPE laden, deionized water in a back flow fashion throughthe resin beds. The beds are flushed with ⅓ of the reservoir water anddischarged out of the discharge port (30). The second phase ofregeneration involves leaving valve (29) closed, leaving valve (25)closed, opening valves (26), (27) and (28). Then turning on pump (19) tocirculate the IPE through the three resin beds. The fluid goes throughthe counter current scrubber (FIG. 16) to keep it free of cations duringthe regeneration process. IPE ladened water enters the scrubber throughconduit (33). It then flows past scrubbed out flow water in conduit(32), which is a porous conduit lined with a semipermeable membrane of apore size of less than 10 A°. This counter current flow allows scrubbingof the hard water by diffusion across a semipermeable membrane(permeable to Ca⁺⁺ and Mg⁺⁺, but not to IPE) and counter current flow.FIG. 17 represents the sequestration of calcium ions by IPE. IPEattaches to the calcium scale thereby imparting a negative charge to thescale. The negatively charged scale then repels off the surface of theappliance or pipe line.

Due to the progressive contamination of water on earth and the antiquityof current water technology, there is a need for a reliable, rapid andrelatively inexpensive method of total purification of water at point ofuse as well as for industrial and municipal use.

The treatment technology of current invention employs technology whichconsists of standard reverse osmosis (RO) hard water and membranes (FIG.18). The RO units are modified in that an injection port and chemicalfeed pump for IPE is added immediately prior to the normal feed waterinlet port. For a detailed description of a pilot version of theembodiment see addendum “Use of a Proprietary Additive—“IPE” (InorganicPolymer Electret) for RO (reverse osmosis) membrane performanceenhancement.

FIG. 19 is a depiction of the basic principles of reverse osmosis andthe mechanism by which IPE protects the membrane from scaling. Scalingis secondary to bonding of calcium carbonate and/or magnesium carbonateto the membrane (primarily on the feed water side). IPE sequesters thecalcium and therefore presents a negative charge to the negativelycharged membrane, thereby preventing scaling and descaling anyaccumulated scale. FIG. 20 is a depiction of a proposed placement of afeed line for IPE in an industrial reverse osmosis plant

Use of a Proprietary Additive—“IPE” (Inorganic Polymer Electret)—For RO(Reverse Osmosis) Membrane Performance Enhancement

Introduction:

This report is a presentation of the limited evaluation of two differentRO membrane elements for potential application in improving theefficiency and reducing the cost of reverse osmosis in the water marketplace.

Background of the Technology:

The technology used in this experiment is IPE, a proprietary inorganicpolymer which is colloidal in nature with a manipulable net charge. Thetechnology can and has been effective in the enhancement of RO membraneswhich are active and passive in function.

Materials and Methods:

a) Test Setup and Methods for PSRO

The tests were performed on a Series 250 RO system equipped with PSRO(polysuflone reverse osmosis) type elements. Feed water was obtained byprocessing well water containing approximately 1300 mg/l of calciumcarbonate to a level of 3.33 to 4.0 mg/i of calcium carbonate. The feedwater was then fed to the Series 250 system via an external pump. TheSeries 250 system is modified in that an injection port and chemicalfeed pump for IPE have been added immediately prior to the normal feedwater inlet port. The system was run with the recovery valve in themaximum recovery position with an inlet flow of between 2.05 and 2.25gallons per minute. The operating pressures of the system for both thepump and the reject ran between 180 psi during IPE feed and 195 psiduring the non IPE feed periods. Samples were pulled approsimately every15 minutes for both feed and product waters. Conductivities weremeasured using a Myron L EP conductivity meter: Calcium carbonate levelswere obtained by EDTA titration method per “Standard Methods” 314 B.Immediately prior to start of testing of PSRO membranes were regeneratedusing 15 Tigers of 5% NaCl solution The IPE injection started atapproximately the 70 minute mark without any adjustments to any otherparameter. IPE injected into the feed stream was injected at a rate ofapproximately 10 ml per minute. The concentration of the IPE was 15,000ppm of active material which equates to 17.8 ppm in the water whichreached the membrane.

b) Test Setup and Methods for TFC

The tests were performed on a Series 250 RO system equipped with TFCPolyamide elements (US filter no. CDRC 025 SI & SH). The feed water wasobtained from a well with calcium carbonate levels up to 1300 mg/l (76grains hardness). This water was then diluted with processed water toobtain various levels of hardness. The feed water was fed to the Series250 system via an external pump with pressures of 40 to 60 psi. Theseries 250 system was modified in that an injection port and chemicalfeed pump for IPE were added immediately prior to the normal feed waterinlet port. The system was run with the recovery valve in the maximumrecovery position with an inlet flow of between 2.1 and 3.2 gallons perminute. The operating pressures of the system for both the pump and thereject ran between 180 and 195 psi during non IPE periods and dropped toas low as 175 during IPE feeds. Samples were pulled at intervals fromboth feed and product waters. Conductivities were measured using a MyronL EP conductivity meter. Calcium carbonate levels were obtained by EDTAtitration method per “Standard Methods” 314 B. Water of hardness from 20to 76 grains was employed for the testing. IPE was normally injected atvarious rates but mostly at 10 ml/minute and in bolus of up to 500 ml.Due to the apparent adequacy of small bolus injections, a continuousfeed was not employed for most of the test. The concentration of IPE was5,000 ppm of active material.

Results:

The results of these two experiments are presented in table and graphform.

a) PSRO Membrane Results

FIG. 1 represents selected data points, reduced to graphic form from thetests described in the Methods section. As may be noted from the curveon feed water, the feed calcium concentration was 4 mg/l. Theconcentration fell to 3.33 mg/i just prior to the addition of IPE. Thischange was believed to be due to mixing within the large mix tank used.The conductivity rejection was 92% just after the membrane wasregenerated with a 5% solution of sodium chloride. This high rejectionrate persisted for about 27 minutes at a feed water flow of 2.25 gpm.The membrane then began to fail and the conductivity rejection droped by57% by 50 minutes. When IPE was added at 17.8 ppm, the rejectionfraction returned to 83% at 80 minutes and maintinaed that fraction ofrejection. Following regeneration of the membrane with the 5% NaClsolution the calcium rejection was 67%. When the membrane failed, thecalcium rejection fell to 23%. When the IPE was added, the calciumrejection returned to 85%. As the membrane failed, the recovery droppedbut returned to the original recovery by 90 minutes. Table 1 presentsselected data points to demonstrate membrane failure and on-lineregeneration and protection by IPE. Table 2 is a comprehensive listingof all data points from the experiment.

b) TFC Membrane Results

FIG. 2 is a representation of the pressure required to drive a flow of3.2 gpm in a membrane which had been charged with IPE and the exposed toa bolus of 500 ml of 5,000 ppm IPE. The feed water was unsoftened andcontained 72 grains of hardness (1231 mg/l Ca). FIG. 3 is a graphicrepresentation of the data from the same membrane charged with IPEprocessing the same 72 grain hardness feed water. When a bolus of IPEwas exposed to the membrane, the mg/l of Ca⁺⁺ dropped from 6.6 to 2.2.Therefore; as noted in FIG. 4, the percent calcium rejection increasedfrom about 99.5 to approximately 99.8. TABLE 1 PSRO TEST Calcium FeedRejection Conductivity Amount of Gallons Concentration % Rejection % IPEAdded 22 0.233 Gr, 65% 91.6% 0 4 mg/l, 18 μS 91 0.233 Gr, 35%   66% 0 4mg/l, 18 μS 177 0.195 Gr, 72.9%   82.9% 17.8 ppm 3.33 mg/l, 76 μS 2200.195 Gr, 80    85% 17.8 ppm 3.33 mg/l, 76 μSNote that IPE added is not necessarily the optimum dosage but simply anarbitrary amount selected for this particular test.

TABLE 2 RO ELEMENT FEED WATER SOURCE PSRO Modified Well Water 4 mg/l CaDATE: Sep. 19, 1997 FEED ELASPED COND. TIME TOTAL FLOW MICRO HARDNESMIN.s GAL. GPM SIEMENS Ca mg/l GR/GAL PRES 18.00 4 0.233918 10 22.5 2.2518 4 0.233918 195 27 62.45 2.35 18 4 0.233918 195 40 91.05 2.2 18 40.233918 195 50 112.1 2.1 14 4 0.233918 195 60 133.1 2.1 13 3.330.194737 195 80 177.1 2.2 76 3.33 0.194737 190 90 199.1 2.2 76 3.330.194737 185 100  219.6 2.05 76 3.33 0.194737 180 PRODUCT ELASPED COND.TIME FLOW MICRO HARDNES MIN.s GPM SIEMENS Ca mg/l GR/GAL 1.25 10 1.251.5 1.33 0.0777778 27 1.25 1.4 1.33 0.0777778 40 1.1 6 2.6 0.1520468 501 6 1.99 0.1163743 60 1 5.4 2.6 0.1520468 80 1.2 13 0.9 0.0526316 901.25 13.5 0.66 0.0385965 100  1.1 13 0.5 0.0292398 RE- ELASPED REJECTJECTION RE- TIME FLOW PERCENT % BY JECTION MIN.s GPM PRES RECOVERY COND.% BY Ca 1 #DIV/0! 100.00% 100.00% 10 1 195 55.56% 91.67% 66.75% 27 1.1195 53.19% 92.22% 66.75% 40 1.1 195 50.00% 66.67% 35.00% 50 1.1 19547.62% 57.14% 50.25% 60 1.1 195 47.62% 58.46% 21.92% 80 1 190 54.55%82.89% 72.97% 90 0.95 185 56.82% 82.24% 80.18% 100  0.95 180 53.66%82.89% 84.98%NOTES:IPE feed started at 70 minutes at a flow of 10 ml per minute.

Conclusions and Discussions:

The data presented in this report supports the position that the smallamounts of IPE injected onto the TFC membrane enhances and protects themembrane for extended periods of time from fouling or scaling from veryhard, high mineral content water containing calcium and magnesiumcarbonate, iron, and hydrogen sulfide. The Tfc will operate on very lowconcentrations of IPE as maintenance. The PSRO membrane can beregenerated and maintained on less than 17.8 ppm of IPE with feed watercontaining 4 ppm of calcium. The exact dosage for each membrane was notestablished in this experiment, it was however demonstrated that theconcentrations of IPE required to protect the membranes are very low.

1. An apparatus for generating an inorganic polymer electret in acolloidal state comprising: (a) a first tube; (b) a second tubepositioned substantially inside the first tube; and (c) flow through thefirst tube being substantially counter to flow through the second tube.2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising at least one magnetattached to the second tube.
 3. An inorganic polymer electric in acolloidal state with a particle size is between about 1 and about 200microns.
 4. The inorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim3 wherein the particle size is between about 1 and about 150 microns. 5.The inorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 3 whereinthe particle size is between about 1 and about 125 microns.
 6. Theinorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 3 wherein theparticle is size is between about 1 and about 115 microns.
 7. Theinorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 3 wherein theparticle size is between about 1 and about 110 microns.
 8. An inorganicpolymer electric in a colloidal state with a zeta potential betweenabout 33 and 50 mV.
 9. The inorganic polymer electric in a colloidalstate of claim 8 wherein the zeta potential is between about 34 and 50 mV.
 10. The inorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 8wherein the zeta potential is between about 34 and 48 m V.
 11. Theinorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 8 wherein thezeta potential is between about 35 and 45 mV.
 12. The inorganic polymerelectric in a colloidal state of claim 8 wherein the zeta potential isbetween about 36 and 43 m V.
 13. The inorganic polymer electric in acolloidal state of claim 8 wherein the zeta potential is between about37 and 41 mV.
 14. The inorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state ofclaim 8 wherein the zeta potential is between about 37 and 39 m V. 15.The inorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 8 whereinthe zeta potential is between about 37 and 38 m V.
 16. The inorganicpolymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 8 wherein the zetapotential is about 37.7 m V.
 17. An inorganic polymer electric in acolloidal state wherein the concentration of the inorganic polymerelectric is greater than about 1,000 parts per million.
 18. Theinorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 17 wherein theconcentration of polymer electric is greater than about 2,000 parts permillion.
 19. The inorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state ofclaim 17 wherein the concentration of polymer electric is greater thanabout 4,000 parts per million.
 20. The inorganic polymer electric in acolloidal state of claim 17 wherein the concentration of polymerelectric is greater than about 10,000 parts per million.
 21. Theinorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 17 wherein theconcentration of polymer electric is greater than about 50,000 parts permillion.
 22. The inorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state ofclaim 17 wherein the concentration of polymer electric is greater thanabout 100,000 parts per million.
 23. The inorganic polymer electric in acolloidal state of claim 17 wherein the concentration of polymerelectric is greater than about 150,000 parts per million.
 24. Theinorganic polymer electric in a colloidal state of claim 17 wherein theconcentration of polymer electric is greater than about 200,000 partsper million.